Aquatic eye cover apparatus and method

ABSTRACT

An eye cover for use in an aquatic environment is provided. In certain embodiments, the eye cover comprises an elastic headband configured to be worn around a wearer&#39;s head and configured in use to cover or surround the wearer&#39;s eyes. The elastic headband can be configured to provide an at least water-resistant seal around the wearer&#39;s eyes. At least one eye chamber disposed on a surface of the headband that in use faces the wearer&#39;s eyes can further be provided. The at least one eye chamber permit the wearer&#39;s eyes to remain open when the headband covers the wearer&#39;s eyes. The at least one eye chamber comprises a flange extending from the headband, wherein the flange is configured to provide at least a water-resistant seal around the wearer&#39;s eye.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.13/607,284, filed Sep. 7, 2012, which is a continuation of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 12/573,345, filed Oct. 5, 2009, now U.S. Pat. No.8,272,071, issued on Sep. 12, 2012, which claims the benefit of U.S.Provisional Patent Application No. 61/102,720, filed on Oct. 3, 2008,and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/120,778, filed on Dec. 8,2008, the entire contents of each of which are incorporated herein bythis specific reference.

BACKGROUND

1. Technical Field

This disclosure relates generally to eye covers and more specifically toeye covers for use in aquatic environments.

2. Description of the Related Art

For various reasons, eye covers for use in aquatic environments, such asmasks and goggles, are popular swim accessories. Conventional eye covershave a number of drawbacks, however, because they are easy to dislodgeor displace during aquatic activities.

For example, these eye covers are not well suited to “blind tag”variants that require that certain players not be allowed to see or viewthe other players. Certain blind tag variants such as “Marco Polo” areplayed in a swimming pool. In Marco Polo, the It player(s) must sensewhere the other players are by sound. At any time, the It player(s) maycall out “Marco!,” and all the other players are required to yell“Polo!” in response. Based on the sounds of the other players'responses, the It player(s) can determine the other players' locations.When an It player succeeds in tagging another player, the latter becomesIt.

A difficultly with blind tag variants, including blind tag variantsplayed in a swimming pool, is ensuring that the It player is not able tosee or view the other players. The prior art has attempted to improveplaying of blind tag variants in a swimming pool by providing goggles ora mask comprising a lens element effective to distort images. Otherprior art has attempted to improve game play by providing goggles or amask with a screen such as aluminum foil or duct tape between the eyeand the lens element to obscure or block the It player's vision.However, these solutions do not prevent an It player from peeking at theother players by adjusting, dislodging, or displacing the goggles' orthe mask's placement. Furthermore, a screen placed between the eye andthe lens element can be a safety hazard if the screen becomes dislodgedduring game play. Accordingly, a need remains for eye coverings suitablefor use in aquatic environments that are not readily dislodged ordisplaced.

SUMMARY

In various embodiments, eye covers for use in aquatic environments andmethods for manufacturing such eye covers are disclosed herein. The eyecovers have improved stability during swimming or other aquatic gameplay and resist dislodgment and displacement. The eye covers cancomprise a wide, preferably one-piece, preferably elastic headband thatis configured to be worn around the circumference of a wearer's head.The headband can be configured to be pulled around the wearer's head,such that the headband is positioned over the wearer's eyes. Theheadband can also be configured to be wrapped around the wearer's head.The eye covers can also comprise a covering system and an overlayconfigured to cover at least a portion of the covering system

In at least one embodiment, a blindfold for use in an aquaticenvironment is provided. The blindfold comprises a elastic headbandconfigured to be worn around a wearer's head and configured in use tocover the wearer's eyes, wherein the elastic headband is configured toprovide an at least water-resistant seal around the wearer's eyes. Atleast one eye chamber is disposed on a surface of the headband that inuse faces the wearer's eyes. The at least one eye chamber is configuredto permit the wearer's eyes to remain open when the headband covers thewearer's eyes. Each of the at least one eye chamber can comprise aflange extending from the headband, wherein the flange is configured toprovide at least a water-resistant seal around the wearer's eye.

In at least one embodiment, an eye cover for use in an aquaticenvironment is provided. The eye cover comprises a headband configuredto be worn around the circumference of a wearer's head. The headband cancomprise one or two cutout regions. One or two eye chambers can beinserted through the cutout regions or disposed over the cutout regions.The one or two eye chambers are configured in use to cover the wearer'seyes. The one or two eye chambers can form in use a watertight sealaround a wearer's eyes.

In the above-described embodiments, the headband can be configured to bepulled around the wearer's head, such that the headband is positionedover or around the wearer's eyes. The headband can also be configured tobe wrapped around the wearer's head. The headband can be secured arounda wearer's head by Velcro, a snap, a grommet, or the like.

The headband can comprise a sealing fabric or material that isconfigured to provide the at least water-resistant seal around thewearer's eyes. The sealing fabric or material can be neoprene, plastic,vinyl, or the like. An outer edge of the headband can be folded over toprovide the at least water-resistant seal around the wearer's eyes. Theheadband can comprise at least one sealing structure disposed on thesurface of the headband that in use faces the wearer's eyes, wherein thesealing structure is configured to provide the at least water-resistantseal around the wearer's eyes. The sealing structure can comprise awaterproof bead or strip.

The at least one eye chamber can further comprise a gasket disposed on asurface of the flange that in use contacts the wearer's face. The gasketcan be configured in use to provide a watertight seal around a wearer'seye.

At least one eye chamber can further comprise a rigid or semi-rigid lensthat covers the flange and is disposed proximal the headband. Inembodiments comprising two eye chambers, the two eye chambers can beconnected by a bridge.

The eye cover can further comprise one or more rigid or semi-rigidprojections disposed on a surface of the headband that in use facesoutward, configured to facilitate removal of the headband.

In at least one embodiment, a method for manufacturing an eye cover foruse in an aquatic environment is provided. The method comprises securingat least one eye chamber to an elastic headband configured to be wornaround a wearer's head and configured in use to cover the wearer's eyes.In embodiments with two eye chambers, the method can further compriseattaching each eye chamber to a bridge prior to securing the eyechambers to the elastic headband.

In another embodiment, a method for blindfolding a person is provided.The method comprises providing swim goggles or a mask and pulling askirt over the goggles or mask, wherein the skirt comprises a corddisposed in the skirt's periphery. The method further comprisestightening the cord to secure the skirt to the goggles or mask. The actof tightening can comprise sliding a barrel lock on the cord to shortenthe cord's effective diameter.

For purposes of summarizing the embodiments and the advantages achievedover the prior art, certain items and advantages are described herein.Of course, it is to be understood that not necessarily all such items oradvantages may be achieved in accordance with any particular embodiment.Thus, for example, those skilled in the art will recognize that theinventions may be embodied or carried out in a manner that achieves oroptimizes one advantage or group of advantages as taught or suggestedherein without necessarily achieving other advantages as may be taughtor suggested herein. Processes and methods described herein do not implya fixed order to the steps, and embodiments may be practiced in anyorder that is practicable.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The drawings and the associated descriptions are provided to illustrateembodiments and not to limit the scope of the disclosure. Throughout thedrawings, reference numbers are re-used to indicate correspondencebetween referenced elements. In addition, the first digit of eachreference number indicates the figure in which the element firstappears.

FIG. 1A is a back plan view of an example eye cover.

FIG. 1B. is a back plan view of another example eye cover.

FIG. 2A is a front plan view of the eye cover according to FIG. 1A.

FIG. 2B is a front plan view of the eye cover according to the secondembodiment of FIG. 1B.

FIG. 3 is a front perspective view of an example eye cover in use by awearer.

FIG. 4A is a rear perspective view of an example eye cover comprisingtwo eye chambers. FIG. 4B is a rear perspective view of an example eyechamber comprising a flange and a gasket.

FIG. 5A through FIG. 5E show two example eye chambers. FIG. 5A is abottom-up view of the eye chambers. FIG. 5B and FIG. 5C are side-planviews of the eye chambers. FIG. 5D is a perspective view of the eyechambers. FIG. 5E is a rear perspective view of example eye chambersconnected by an adjustable bridge.

FIG. 6A through FIG. 6C show an example eye cover comprises two eyechambers, wherein the eye chambers are inserted through a headband.

FIG. 7A is a front perspective view an example eye cover comprising twoshells. FIG. 7B is a front perspective view of another example eye covercomprising two shells.

FIG. 8A is a front perspective view of an example eye cover comprising ahandle. FIG. 8B is a rear perspective view of another example eye covercomprising a handle.

FIG. 9A and FIG. 9B show an eye cover comprising a covering system andan overlay configured to cover at least a portion of the coveringsystem.

These and other features will now be described with reference to thedrawings summarized below. These drawings and the associated descriptionare provided to illustrate preferred embodiments of the invention andnot to limit the scope of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Various embodiments include the realization that swimming or aquaticgame play can be improved by providing a water resistant or watertightblindfold over a wearer's eyes. Still further, various embodimentsincluding the realization that game play of blind tag variants in anaquatic environment can be improved by providing a blindfold thatobscures a wearer's vision while permitting the wearer to keep her orhis eyes open underwater. Still further, various embodiments include therealization that a wide headband disposed around the circumference of awearer's head can improve the stability of an eye cover during swimmingor aquatic game play. Still further, various embodiments include therealization that swimming and aquatic game play can be improved byproviding an eye cover with at least two mechanisms of sealing againstwater. These are other realizations are discussed in more detail below.

Watertight and water resistant eye covers and methods of makingwatertight and water resistant eye covers are provided. As used herein,“watertight” is defined to mean fitted to be substantially impervious topenetration of water under ordinary use or game play; “water resistant”is defined to mean constructed or fitted to be substantially resistantto the penetration of water under ordinary use or game play. Variouswaterproof, water resistant, and water permeable construction materials,as described in more detail below, are used to facilitate a watertightor water-resistant fit. “Waterproof” is defined to mean constructed tobe substantially impervious to penetration of water under ordinary useor game play; “water permeable” is defined to mean constructed to permitpenetration of water under ordinary use or game play. In someembodiments, a headband with one or more eye chambers comprising aflange and/or gasket is employed to facilitate a watertight fit around awearer's eyes. A “flange” is a projecting rim or collar disposed on orthrough a headband. A “gasket” is a ring or liner disposed on the flangeconfigured to facilitate a water resistant or watertight fit between theflange and the skin around the wearer's eyes.

For a more detailed understanding of the disclosure, reference is firstmade to FIG. 1A, which shows an example embodiment of an eye cover 100.The eye cover 100 comprises a headband 103.

In use, the headband 103 is positioned around a wearer's head. A portionof the headband 103 can cover or surround the wearer's eyes, asdemonstrated by the example positioning of FIG. 3. The headband 103 canbe flexible. In certain preferred embodiments, at least a portion of theheadband 103 is elastic (that is, springy or stretchy). An elasticheadband 103 can advantageously provide a snug fit around the wearer'shead, facilitating a water-resistant or water tight fit. An elasticheadband 103 can also provide more comfort for the wearer.

Referring again to FIG. 1A, a variety of construction materials aresuitable for the headband 103. Suitable materials include naturalmaterials such as natural latex, natural rubber, and natural fibers, aswell as and synthetic materials such as synthetic latex, syntheticrubber, silicone, polyester, synthetic fibers, spandex, neoprene, andnylon. In addition, other polymeric materials can be used as suitableconstruction materials. In various embodiments, a headband 103 comprisesa combination of natural materials, a combination of syntheticmaterials, or a combination of natural and synthetic materials.Preferably, the construction material is selected to be resistant todeterioration by chlorine or other chemicals in water. For instance,synthetic polymers such as silicone and neoprene resist deterioration bychlorine.

In certain embodiments, the headband 103 construction material isselected to render the headband 103 water permeable, water resistant, orwaterproof. Preferably, however, the headband 103 construction materialis selected to be water resistant or waterproof. Furthermore, theheadband 103 thickness can be selected to facilitate water resistance orwater tightness. In one embodiment, the headband 103 thickness isbetween about 1 and 10 mm, and more preferably between about 1 and 5 mm,and most preferably between about 2 and 4 mm. The headband 103 height ispreferably wide. In one embodiment, the headband height is about 160 mmor less, about 120 mm or less, or about 100 mm or less at its widestdimension (e.g., not including any optional tapering in the nasal or earregions). In certain embodiments, the minimum height (e.g., around thenose or ears regions) is about 100 mm or less, about 75 mm or less, orabout 50 mm or less, or about 30 mm or less. A wide headband 103advantageously provides greater stability to an eye cover 100 duringswimming or aquatic game play. The larger surface area alsoadvantageously permits designs or patterns to be emplaced on theoutward-facing surface of the headband 103 via screen printing or othersuitable methods.

The headband 103 can be configured to provide a water-resistant or, morepreferably, a waterproof seal around at least a portion of the wearer'sface. For example, the headband 103 construction material and/orthickness can be selected to provide a waterproof seal around thewearer's eyes. Accordingly, the headband 103 can comprise a materialselected to provide a water-resistant or water-tight seal where thematerial contacts the wearer's skin. Preferably, in use, the headband103 is worn around a wearer's head and covers the wearer's eyes. Theheadband 103 material can form a substantially watertight seal where theheadband 103 contacts the skin on the wearer's face. Rubber, neoprene,silicone, plastic, epoxy, latex, urethane, vinyl, and the like areexamples of materials that can form a substantially watertight seal whenplaced against skin. For example, the headband 103 can be formed from astretchy neoprene.

The headband 103 can also comprise a combination of water permeable,and/or waterproof materials. For example, the portion of the headband103 covering the wearer's eyes can be constructed of waterproofmaterial(s) while the remainder of the headband 103 can comprise waterpermeable and/or water resistant construction materials.

In at least one embodiment, a portion of the headband 103 that in usecovers the wearer's eyes, such as the inner surface of the headband 103,can be formed of neoprene or other suitable material such as plastic,vinyl, etc., as described above. In other embodiments, the inner surfaceof the headband 103 that covers the wearer's eyes can be treated with asealant material such as epoxy, latex, or urethane. The remainder of theheadband 103 can be formed of another material. Thus, a watertight sealaround the wearer's eyes can be provided by the epoxy, latex, urethane,or other sealant treatment.

Other techniques for providing a water-resistant or waterproof sealaround a portion of the wearer's face are also suitable. For instance,at least a portion of the headband 103 material can be shaped, molded,or otherwise formed to create a water-resistant or watertight seal. Inat least one embodiment, a portion or edge of the headband 103 materialcan be arched or folded over to create an o-ring-type seal. The archedor folded material can be sewn, glued, or otherwise secured in place.The resulting o-ring-type seal can be water-resistant or watertight.

Preferably, the shaped, molded, or otherwise formed portion of theheadband 103 comprises at least one material with sealing properties.For example, the portion of the headband 103 that in use covers thewearer's eyes can be formed of neoprene or other suitable material suchas plastic, vinyl, etc. The neoprene, plastic, vinyl, etc. portion canbe arched or folded over to form a watertight seal around the wearer'seyes. In certain embodiments, the formed portion is about 1 inch inwidth, about ¾ inch in width, or about ¼ inch in width. Preferably, theformed portion is about ½ inch in width.

In certain embodiments, one or more sealing structures can be glued,sewn, embedded, integrated, or otherwise attached to the headband 103 toprovide at least a water-resistant seal around at least a portion of thewearer's face. The sealing structure can be configured to contact theskin and seal out water. For instance, a bead or strip of latex orurethane can be glued or applied on a portion of a headband 103 that inuse surrounds a wearer's eyes and/or nose. A variety of other sealingstructures can also be used alone or in combination. For example, atleast one of the sealing structures can comprise an inflatable bladder,a cushion, or the like. As another example, at least one of the sealingstructures comprises an adhesive strip.

The one or more sealing structures can be attached to a portion of theheadband 103, such that in use, the structure(s) surround the wearer'seyes. As an example, the one or more sealing structures can be attachedto the headband 103 near an outer edge of the headband 103. In certainembodiments, the one or more sealing structures are about 1 inch inwidth, about ¾ inch in width, or about ¼ inch in width. Preferably, oneor more of the sealing structures is about ½ inch in width. In certainembodiments, the one or more of the sealing structures is between about⅛ inch and ½ inch thick, for example, about ¼ inch thick.

The headband 103 or the portion of the headband 103 that covers thewearer's eyes can be configured to be substantially opaque to light orat least light-resistant. For example, at least the portion of theheadband 103 covering the wearer's eyes can be constructed from thick,dark, and/or dense construction materials, lined with an opaque liner,etc. In addition, the headband 103 thickness can be selected to inhibitthe passage of light. In various embodiments, the amount of light thatpasses through the construction materials can be reduced, for example,by 25%, 50%, 75%, 90%, or 100%. A light-resistant portion preferablypermits some light to pass therethrough but does not permit a wearer todiscern images. A material that is light resistant, for example, can beconstructed of a material comprising pinhole apertures. Alight-resistant portion can advantageously be worn by a wearer who isafraid of the dark. In certain embodiments, at least a portion of theheadband 103 can be transparent to light.

As shown in FIG. 1A, in certain embodiments, the headband 103 cancomprise a nose notch 112 to accommodate the shape of a wearer's nose.In certain embodiments, the nose notch 112 is located at or near themiddle of the headband 103. The provision of a nose notch 112 canadvantageously provide comfort for the wearer and/or assure that thewearer's nasal passages do not become compressed. In certainembodiments, the nose notch 112 can be pre-formed in the headband 103during manufacture. In certain embodiments, the construction material ofthe headband 103 can be cut or shaped by the wearer to create or form anose notch 112.

In certain embodiments, the headband 103 can cover all or part of thenose. In at least one embodiment, the headband 103 comprises anintegrated noseplug. In one embodiment, the headband 103 provides awatertight seal around a wearer's nostrils. The provision of a headbandthat covers all or part of the nose (for example, with an integratednoseplug) advantageously provides greater comfort for wearers that wishto prevent water from entering their nasal passages.

As shown in FIG. 1A and FIG. 2A, the headband 103 can have asubstantially rectangular shape. In certain embodiments, the headband103 can have a continuous ring shape. In those embodiments in which theheadband 103 has a continuous ring shape, a wearer positions theheadband 103 by pulling the headband 103 over the head and over theeyes. In certain embodiments, the headband 103 is about 30 inches inlength or circumference, preferably about 26 inches in length orcircumference, more preferably about 24 inches in length orcircumference, and most preferably about 22 inches in length orcircumference.

As shown in FIG. 1B and FIG. 2B, the headband 103 height can have atapered or otherwise irregular shape. For example, the headband 103height can be narrower around the portion that in use is proximate thewearer's ears or nose. A tapered shape that avoids covering a wearer'sears during use can advantageously improve the wearer's hearing whileplaying Marco Polo. A tapered shape around the nose (a nose notch) canaccommodate wearers who prefer to swim with their nasal passagesuncovered.

In various embodiments, the edges of the headband 103 can comprise anattachment mechanism. As shown in FIG. 1A, in a preferred embodiment,the loop or hook side of a first Velcro attachment 115 or a snap can beattached, molded, embedded, integrated, or otherwise formed at one endof the headband 103, preferably on the side that in use faces inward. Asshown in FIG. 2A, the compliant side of the Velcro attachment 118 or acompliant snap is attached, molded, embedded, integrated, or otherwiseformed at the opposite end of the headband 103, preferably on the sidethat in use faces outward. To join the edges, the wearer overlaps andjoins the two sides of the Velcro attachments 115, 118 or snaps. Incertain embodiments, both the first and second Velcro attachment 115,118 or other attachment mechanism are located on the same side of theheadband 103.

Preferably, the length of at least one of the side of Velcro is selectedto allow the headband 103 to be adjusted snugly around head or face. Forexample, as shown in FIG. 2A, the second Velcro attachment 118 isselected to be longer than the first Velcro attachment 115 shown in FIG.1A, permitting the headband 103 to fit snugly around various headcircumferences. In certain embodiments, at least one of the Velcroattachments 115, 118 is about four inches long or about eight incheslong. Most preferably, at least one of the Velcro sides is about sixinches long.

Other attachment mechanisms are suitable for use in securing theheadband 103 around the wearer's head. Attachment mechanisms caninclude, but are not limited to buttons, grommets, adjustable tabs,brackets, etc. In certain embodiments, the two edges of a headband 103can be tied together.

Referring again to FIG. 1A, in various embodiments, an eye cover 100 cancomprise a headband 103 and one or more eye chambers 106, 109 that areattached to, molded to, embedded in, integrated in, glued on, sewn into,or otherwise formed to the headband 103. In certain embodiments, an eyechamber 106, 109 is attached to the headband 103 with glue or otheradhesive. In other embodiments, the eye chambers 106, 109 are heatmolded to the headband 103. In other embodiments, the headband 103retains the eye chambers, for example, with flaps, strips, or portionsof fabric. Alternatively, the eye chamber(s) 106, 109 and the headband103 can be a unitary construction.

The eye chambers 106, 109 are preferably waterproof and in usewatertight, so as to stop water from touching a wearer's eyes. Awatertight fit can be enhanced in use by the action of water pressurepushing the eye chambers 106, 109 against the region surrounding thewearer's eyes. In certain embodiments, an eye cover comprises a singleeye chamber that in use covers both eyes.

As shown in greater detail in FIG. 4A, in certain embodiments, an eyechamber 106 comprises a flange 403 that extends from a surface of theheadband 103. In certain embodiments, the flange 403 is rigid and fitssnugly into the eye socket. However, the flange 403 can be resilient,flexible, or soft-walled. A resilient, flexible, or soft-walledconstruction advantageously permits the flange 403 to engage and conformto the wearer's face and/or eyes. A flexible construction canadvantageously provide a comfortable fit for the wearer, for example, bymolding to the wearer's face.

In various embodiments, the flange 403 is configured to provide in use awaterproof and/or watertight seal. For instance, a flange 403 with aflexible construction can permit a wearer to push one or more of the eyechambers toward the face. By pushing on the flexible flange, air isevacuated under the eye chamber. The pressure of the space under the eyechamber (that is, the pressure proximal the eyes) becomes lower than thepressure outside the eye chamber, thereby promoting a watertight seal.The seal created by the flange is reinforced by the positive pressurecreated by the headband 103. When the headband 103 is stretched aroundthe head, the headband 103 applies pressure around the entire flange.Because the headband 103 surrounds and presses on the flange in use,additional positive pressure is exerted upon the flange, promoting awater-tight fit.

In certain embodiments, the flange 403 comprises an expanded elastomeror a plastic. In certain embodiments, the flange 403 comprisespolycarbonate, Lexan, or natural or synthetic rubber. In certainembodiments, the flange 403 construction material is selected to deformto fit the face and/or eyes. In certain embodiment, the flange 403construction material is selected to resist deterioration by chlorine orother chemical in water. In certain embodiments, the flange 403construction material(s) can be selected to be opaque to light orselected to substantially reduce the amount of light that can pass tothe wearer's eye in use, advantageously blocking extraneous light whichpermeates through the headband 103.

The eye chamber 106 can optionally comprise a lens 406 configured tocover the flange 403. A lens is defined as a rigid or semi-rigid cover.The lens 406 is preferably positioned in use at least over one or botheyes. Certain embodiments disclosed herein include the realization thata rigid or semi-rigid lens 406 can prevent the flange 403 (such as aflexible flange 403) from collapsing, advantageously preventing apotentially dangerous amount of suction from being exerted upon awearer's eye. Certain embodiments disclosed herein include thatrealization that a rigid or semi-rigid lens 406 can be adapted toprotect the wearer's eyes from impact, for example, by a wall or byanother player. Because a blindfolded wearer has no vision and acompromised ability to sense obstacles, a rigid or semi-rigid lens 406can thus advantageously improve the wearer's safety.

The lens 406 can be constructed from a waterproof material. A waterprooflens 406 can ensure a watertight and/or waterproof fit around the eyes.

The lens 406 can be attached, molded, embedded, integrated, glued, orotherwise formed to a flange. For example, a lens 406 can be heat moldedto the flange. In some embodiments, the lens 406 and the flange can be aunitary construction.

Alternatively, the lens 406 can be attached, molded, embedded,integrated, sewn, or otherwise formed to the headband 103. For example,the lens 406 portion of the eye chamber 106 can be glued to the headband103.

Preferably, the lens 406 is manufactured from a material such aspolycarbonate, Lexan, silicone, safety glass, or natural or syntheticrubber. These materials (and others) can advantageously resistshattering upon impact. In certain embodiments, the material can beselected to be opaque to light or selected to substantially reduce theamount of light that can pass to the wearer's eye in use. This canadvantageously reduce or block extraneous light which permeates throughthe headband 103, improving the action of the eye cover as a blindfold.

In various embodiments, an eye chamber further comprises a gasketportion disposed on at least a portion of the flange that in usecontacts the face and/or eyes. An example eye chamber 109 comprising aflange 403 and gasket 409 is shown in FIG. 4B. The gasket 409 canprovide and/or reinforce a watertight seal. For example, a gasket 409can be configured to prevent the passage of air or water through gapsbetween the flange 403 and the wearer's face. The gasket 409 can be, forexample, a resilient cushion such as a soft, low-density elastomericpad, a closed-cell foam, a plastic cushion containing a fluid or gas, orthe like. Preferably, the gasket 409 comprises a waterproof material. Incertain embodiments, the gasket 409 construction material is selected toresist deterioration by chlorine and/or to improve the wearer's comfort.

Referring to FIG. 5A, in certain embodiments, a bridge 503 can beprovided between the eye chambers 106, 109. A bridge 503 canadvantageously facilitate positioning the eye chambers 106, 109 on theheadband 103 during construction of an eye cover. The bridge 503 can befixedly engaged with the eye chambers 106, 109. Alternatively, as shownin FIG. 5B, the bridge 503 can be configured to permit a wearer toadjust the position of the eye chambers 106, 109 on the bridge 503 toallow a comfortable distance between the eye chambers 106, 109. FIG. 5Bshows an example embodiment wherein the bridge 503 comprises groovesthat are compliant with notches in the eye chambers 106, 109. A wearercan adjust and engage the notch for each eye chamber into a compliantgroove in the bridge to provide a comfortable distance between the eyechambers. An adjustable bridge-and-chamber configuration canadvantageously provide a customizable fit that prevents the eye chambersfrom shifting off the wearer's eyes in use.

Referring to FIG. 6A, in certain embodiments, the headband 103 cancomprise one or two cutout regions. One or two eye chambers 106, 109 canbe inserted through the cutout regions or disposed over the cutoutregions. Suitable methods for securing the one or two eye chambers 106,109 to the headband 103 are described above, such as heat molding,stitching, gluing, and the like. Alternative views of the eye cover 100of FIG. 6A are shown in FIG. 6B and FIG. 6C. The one or two eye chambers106, 109 are configured in use to cover the wearer's eyes. As shown inFIG. 6B, each of the one or two eye chambers 106, 109 comprises a lens403 and a flange 406. As explained above, the one or two eye chambers106, 109 can form in use a watertight seal around the wearer's eyes. Inthe example embodiment of FIG. 6A, the headband 103 is configured to bewrapped around the wearer's head. As an alternative, however, theheadband 103 can be configured to be pulled around the wearer's head,such that the headband 103 is positioned over the wearer's eyes. Thelenses shown 403, 406 in FIG. 6B are preferably transparent. That is,the wearer is able to see through the lenses 403 to clearly discernimages. Nevertheless, the lenses 403 can also be opaque or configured toobscure images in various embodiments.

One or more shaped shells can be provided on a surface of the headband103 that in use faces outward. Preferably, the one or more shells arerigid or semi-rigid. A rigid shell is inflexible. A semi-rigid shell issufficiently stiff to maintain a certain shape and to return to theshape after deformation. In certain embodiments, a wearer can grasp atleast one of the one or more shells to facilitate removal of theheadband 103. Referring to FIG. 7A, in one embodiment, two substantiallyhemispherical shells 703, 706 are provided on the portion of theheadband 103 proximal the wearer's eyes. Referring to FIG. 7B, twocat-eye shaped shells 709, 712 are provided on a portion of the headband103 proximal the wearer's eyes. The outer surface of the one or moreshells can be decorated, for example, to resemble fly eyes, animal eyes,or other shapes. In various embodiments, the one or more shells can bemade of one or more materials such as foam, rubber, plastic, etc. Theone or more shells can be attached, molded, embedded, integrated, glued,sewn, or otherwise formed to the headband 103. In various embodiments,the one or more shells and the headband 103 are a unitary construction.For example, during manufacture of a neoprene headband 103, one or moreshells in the headband 103 can be molded into shape.

In various embodiments, one or more handles can be provided on a surfaceof the headband 103 that in use faces outward. Preferably, the one ormore handles are rigid (that is, inflexible) or semi-rigid. Referring toFIG. 8A, at least one handle can, for example, resemble a bumper, visor,or bar 803 disposed on a portion of the headband 103 above the wearer'seyes. In alternative embodiments, the at least one handle can bedisposed on a portion of the headband 103 near the wearer's ears, nose,etc. In one embodiment, the handle is a visor about 4 inches long(horizontally), about 1½ to 2 inches deep, and about ¼ to ¾ inch inthickness. Referring to FIG. 8B, at least one handle can comprise a tabor bar 806 disposed on the headband 103, such as near an edge of theheadband 103. In certain embodiments, a wearer can grasp, pull, or bumpat least one of the one or more handles to facilitate removal of theheadband 103. In various embodiments, the one or more handles can bemade of one or more materials such as foam, rubber, plastic, etc.

As shown in FIG. 9A, in various embodiments, an eye cover 903 isprovided comprising an covering system 906 (e.g., comprising swimgoggles or a swim mask 912) and an overlay 909 configured to cover atleast a portion of the covering system 906. Preferably, the overlay 909can be removably engaged with the covering system 906. Such embodimentsare advantageous because they allow the overlay 909 to be traded amongwearers (e.g., playing blind tag or Marco Polo). However, the overlay809 can also be permanently engaged over the covering system 906 in someembodiments.

In some embodiments, the covering system 906 comprises a projectingportion 915 that projects outward from the swim goggles or swim mask912. The projecting portion 915 can advantageously facilitate engagingthe overlay 909 on the covering system 906. The projecting portion 915can be disposed, for example, on side of the covering system 906, asshown in FIG. 9A, around the perimeter of the front viewing portion ofthe swim mask 912, etc.

The overlay 909 can comprise a skirt 918 or other suitable means forcovering the covering system 906. In the example embodiment of FIG. 9A,the skirt 918 comprises a perimeter portion 921. A cord 924 can bedisposed within the perimeter portion 921. A fixing mechanism 927 (shownin FIG. 9A as a barrel lock) is disposed on the cord 924. The fixingmechanism 927 is configured to slide up and down along the cord 924 andengage in a fixed location. By sliding the fixing mechanism 927 up alongthe cord 924 and affixing the fixing mechanism 927 in place, theeffective circumference of the cord 924 is decreased. Conversely, bysliding the fixing mechanism 927 down along the cord, the effectivecircumference of the cord 924 is increased. FIG. 9B shows the overlay909 when it is removably engaged with the covering system 906.

As demonstrated by the example embodiment of FIG. 9A, a method ofremovably engaging the overlay 909 with the covering system 906 isprovided. The perimeter portion 921 of the skirt 918 is pulled aroundthe projecting portion 915. The fixing mechanism 927 slides up along thecord 924 and affixes in place to ensure that the cord 924 fits snuglyaround the perimeter portion 921. To remove the overlay 909 from thecovering system 906, the fixing mechanism 927 is loosened by sliding itdown along the cord 924. When the fixing mechanism 927 is loosened, thecord 924 is slack around the perimeter portion 921. Accordingly, theoverlay 909 can be easily disengaged from the covering system 906.

Of course a wide variety of alternative methods for covering thecovering system 906 are suitable. For example, an elastic band can bedisposed within the perimeter portion 921 of the skirt 918 instead of(or in conjunction with) the cord 924. As another example, in certainembodiments, a portion on the headband (as described above) that coversthe eye chambers is absent or removable. For example, a removableportion can be attached to a headband with Velcro strips. When a playeris It, the removable portion covers the It player's eye chambers. Whenthe It player tags another player, the It player removes the removableportion and transfers it to the tagged player. The tagged player canthen apply the Velcro to compliant strips on the tagged player'sheadband. In embodiments comprising an absent or removable portion, theeye chambers preferably comprise translucent, rigid or semi-rigid lids.The positive pressure of the stretchy headband exerted on the flangeand/or gasket can advantageously provide an improved sealing goggle witha wide strap for comfort.

While certain embodiments of the inventions have been described, theseembodiments have been presented by way of example only, and are notintended to limit the scope of the inventions. Indeed, the novel methodsand systems described herein can be embodied in a variety of otherforms. For example, although described primarily in the context of blindtag variants, the above watertight eye cover can be used in otherswimming events. In Paralympic-affiliated events, swimmers who competeunder the S11 classification (that is, visually impaired with little orno sight) are required to wear opaque or blackened goggles duringcompetition. The watertight eye covers described herein can provide ahydrodynamic alternative blindfold for competitions. Moreover, variousembodiments disclosed herein are suitable for sighted swimming and gameplay. Adaptations and modifications are within the meaning and range ofequivalents of the disclosed embodiments. The phraseology or terminologyemployed herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation.Furthermore, various omissions, substitutions and changes in the form ofthe methods and systems described herein can be made without departingfrom the spirit of the inventions. The accompanying claims and theirequivalents are intended to cover such forms or modifications as wouldfall within the scope and spirit of the inventions.

What is claimed is:
 1. An eye cover for use in an aquatic environmentcomprising: a flexible headband configured to be worn around a wearer'shead and configured to surround a circumference of the wearer's head inuse, the headband comprising one or more cut-out regions configured tobe disposed over the wearer's eyes in use; and at least one eye chamberdisposed over or through the one or more cut-out regions and secured tothe headband, wherein the at least one eye chamber comprises a flangeextending from the headband, wherein the flange is configured to form awatertight seal around a wearer's eye in use, and a rigid or semi-rigidlens that covers the flange and is disposed proximal an outward-facingsurface of the headband.
 2. The eye cover of claim 1, wherein theheadband is configured to be pulled around the circumference of thewearer's head.
 3. The eye cover of claim 1, wherein the headband isconfigured to be wrapped around the circumference of the wearer's headand secured by a securing mechanism,
 4. The eye cover of claim 3,wherein the securing mechanism comprises one or more snaps, grommets,Velcro strips, or the like.
 5. The eye cover of claim 1, wherein theheadband comprises neoprene.
 6. The eye cover of claim 1, furthercomprising one or more rigid or semi-rigid projections disposed on theoutward-facing surface of the headband, wherein the one or more rigid orsemi-rigid projections are configured in use to facilitate removal ofthe headband.
 7. The eye cover of claim 1, further comprising a gasketdisposed on the surface of the flange that in use faces the wearer'seye.
 8. The eye cover of claim 1, wherein the lens is transparent.